2005 Ford Fiesta 1.4L Petrol · HW05 KCX

A pattern of rear‑sub‑frame bush wear, a fractured front coil spring and a coolant leak now dominate the vehicle’s MOT history, indicating that structural and suspension integrity have required attention in recent years. The latest test on 30 June 2026 was passed, but it recorded advisories for both rear sub‑frame pins/bushes and a coolant leak, while earlier tests flagged a major coil‑spring fracture (2025) and a non‑functioning off‑side front position lamp (2025). The recurrence of rear‑sub‑frame advisories alongside the earlier suspension failure suggests that the rear chassis area may be approaching a point where component replacement will be needed to maintain safe handling. With 83 393 mi recorded on a 21‑year‑old Fiesta, the average annual accumulation is just under 4 000 mi, well below the typical UK usage rate. The mileage record is consistent across the ten‑year MOT span, showing no sudden spikes that would imply a period of intensive use. Low annual mileage can mean less overall wear on engine and drivetrain parts, yet the vehicle’s age still predisposes rubber bushings, suspension springs and coolant system components to age‑related degradation, as reflected in the MOT advisories and failures. Prospective buyers should focus the test drive on the rear‑sub‑frame and front suspension. Listen for clunking or knocking when traversing bumps, especially on the rear corners, and feel for any looseness or wandering of the steering that could indicate excessive movement of the worn pins or bushes. A fractured front coil spring often manifests as a noticeable dip in ride height on the affected side and a harsh, rattling noise from the front suspension under load; verify that the spring is intact and that the mounting points are secure. The coolant leak advisory warrants a visual inspection of the radiator, hoses and the engine bay for any signs of wetness or corrosion, and the engine temperature gauge should be monitored for abnormal rise during a short drive. The seat‑belt failure recorded in 2023 and the off‑side front position lamp failure in 2025 remain safety‑critical items that must be confirmed as remedied. Ensure the central rear seat belt retracts smoothly and locks when pulled, and check that all exterior lamps illuminate correctly, with particular attention to the front position lamp on the off‑side. A comprehensive pre‑purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic should verify that the rear sub‑frame bushes have been replaced or are within service limits, that the front coil spring is sound, and that the coolant system is sealed, before committing to purchase.